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Tongue sensitivity

Abstract

This science fair project was performed to investigate tongue sensitivity: to which type of taste (bitter, sour, salty or sweet) is the tongue most sensitive? Participants were given salt, sugar, lime juice and bitter chocolates.

Hypothesis

This science fair project was performed to investigate tongue sensitivity: to which type of taste (bitter, sour, salty or sweet) is the tongue most sensitive? Participants were given salt, sugar, lime juice and bitter chocolates.

Participants will taste the lime juice more acutely than the other food samples. The tongue is the most sensitive to sourness.

Scientific Terms

Taste bud, senses, nerves

Background

Sense of taste

The sense of taste is one of the five senses that human beings possess. Taste buds are located in the tongue. Through the tongue, we are able to appreciate various flavors and tastes in food. The 4 basic types of taste are sweet, sour, salty and bitter. Different parts of the tongue have different types of taste (refer to the diagram below). When we eat, electric signals are generated in the tongue. This electric signal is sent out to the brain via our nerves, causing us to sense a particular type of taste.

The sensitivity of taste is the intensity at which a person is able to perceive the flavor and taste of food. This intensity differs across individuals. For example, a person with high sensitivity of taste will be able to separate and identify the different tastes and flavors that are found in a mixed cocktail.